The Top 10 Hotels in Martinique That Will Ruin All Other Vacations for You
Ah, Martinique! The ‘Isle of Flowers’, the land of potent rum, stunning beaches, and a volcano that minds its manners (most of the time). You’ve decided to grace this French-Caribbean gem with your presence. Excellent choice. But now comes the hard part: where to rest your sun-kissed head after a day of doing, well, whatever you glorious vacationers do?
Fear not, intrepid traveler! We’ve dived headfirst into the digital jungle of TripAdvisor, Expedia, and Booking.com, wrestled with countless reviews, and emerged victorious with the definitive list. Forget endless scrolling. This is it. The ultimate, no-nonsense, “why-didn’t-I-book-this-yesterday” guide to the top 10 hotels in the Martinique. Prepare to have your standards raised and your wallet slightly lightened.
1. Hôtel Bambou & Spa
Nestled in the charming Anses-d’Arlet area, Hôtel Bambou is less a hotel and more a vibrant Creole village that decided to get into the hospitality business. Think colorful bungalows, two stunning pools, and direct access to Anse Mitan beach. It’s the perfect spot if you want to soak in authentic Martinican culture without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. They even have a “feet in the sand” restaurant, because why wear shoes when you’re in paradise?
Why you’ll love it: The vibe is immaculate. It strikes a perfect balance between a resort’s amenities and the feel of a local community. Plus, the spa is an oasis of calm that will melt away the stress of… well, choosing which cocktail to have next.
Booking.com review: “The location is exceptional, right on the beach with a view of the bay of Fort de France. The Creole architecture is charming, the gardens are magnificent and very well maintained. The staff is smiling, welcoming and available. The breakfast is a real plus with a lot of choice and local products. A real paradise!”
2. La Suite Villa
“The moment we arrived, we were treated like royalty. Our villa with a private pool was beyond words – spacious, impeccably clean”
Perched in the hills overlooking the Trois-Îlets bay, La Suite Villa is where art, luxury, and a touch of delightful eccentricity meet. This 5-star boutique hotel isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an experience. Each suite and villa is uniquely decorated with vibrant colors and bold art pieces. The centerpiece is a stunning infinity pool that seems to spill right into the Caribbean Sea. It’s the kind of place you see on Instagram and wonder, “Is that real?” Yes. Yes, it is.
Why you’ll love it: The privacy and the views are unmatched. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or for anyone who appreciates bold design and impeccable service. The on-site restaurant, Le Zandoli, is a gastronomic adventure in itself.
TripAdvisor: review: “La Suite Villa is a gem. The moment we arrived, we were treated like royalty. Our villa with a private pool was beyond words – spacious, impeccably clean, and the view was breathtaking. Every corner of the hotel is a piece of art. The staff went above and beyond to make our anniversary special. We are already planning our return!”
3. Le Cap Est Lagoon Resort & Spa
If your vacation mantra is “go big or go home,” then Le Cap Est is calling your name. Located on the pristine east coast, this resort is all about sprawling luxury. We’re talking private plunge pools, a world-class spa, and a tranquil lagoon protected by a coral reef. It’s secluded, serene, and so ridiculously beautiful it feels like you’ve walked onto a movie set. The kind of place where you instinctively start whispering because it just feels that reverent.
Why you’ll love it: It offers unparalleled tranquility and space. It’s an escape from the world, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature (and yourself). The water sports available on the calm lagoon are a massive bonus.
Expedia review: “Absolute perfection. The property is vast and beautifully maintained. Our suite was enormous, with a private deck and plunge pool that we used every single day. The service was discreet but always there when you needed it. It’s a true sanctuary away from the crowds. The ultimate luxury escape.”
4. Hotel Bakoua Martinique
With a rich history and a prime location in Pointe du Bout, Hotel Bakoua offers classic Caribbean charm with all the modern comforts. Its overwater bungalows are legendary, giving you a taste of the South Pacific in the heart of the Caribbean. The hotel is built around a historic colonial home, and you can feel that timeless elegance throughout the property. Plus, its infinity pool overlooking Fort-de-France bay is the perfect spot for sunset cocktails.
Why you’ll love it: The overwater bungalows are a unique selling point in Martinique. The location is also fantastic, with easy access to the marina, shops, and restaurants of the lively Pointe du Bout area.
TripAdvisor review: “We stayed in an overwater bungalow and it was magical! Waking up and being able to step right out for a swim was an unforgettable experience. The hotel grounds are beautiful, the staff is incredibly friendly, and the view from the bar at sunset is probably the best on the island. Highly recommend!”
5. Carayou Hôtel & Spa
Also in the lively Pointe du Bout, Carayou offers a fantastic all-inclusive option that’s perfect for families and active travelers. With a nautical base offering a ton of water sports (think windsurfing, kayaking, and more), two pools, and nightly entertainment, there’s literally never a dull moment. It’s fun, it’s friendly, and it takes the guesswork out of your vacation budget.
Why you’ll love it: The sheer amount of activities included. It’s a one-stop shop for a fun-filled vacation where you don’t have to constantly pull out your wallet. The atmosphere is energetic and sociable.
Booking.com review: “Great hotel for a family holiday. The all-inclusive package was excellent value. So much to do right at the hotel, from the pools to the water sports. The staff were fantastic, especially with the kids. The location is also perfect for exploring the area. We had a blast!”
6. Simon Hotel
“The best part was the rooftop bar – incredible cocktails and an even better view.”
For those who want a chic, urban experience, Simon Hotel in the heart of Fort-de-France is the answer. This modern, stylish hotel offers breathtaking views of the bay and the city from its sleek rooms and rooftop bar. It’s the perfect base for exploring the capital’s culture, history, and culinary scene. Forget rustic beach shacks; this is cosmopolitan Caribbean life at its finest.
Why you’ll love it: Its central location and modern design. It’s ideal for business travelers or tourists who prefer the buzz of the city to the seclusion of a beach resort. The rooftop bar, Le Bolibar, is a destination in its own right.
Expedia review: “A fantastic city hotel. The room was modern, comfortable, and had a stunning view of the harbor. The staff were professional and very helpful. The best part was the rooftop bar – incredible cocktails and an even better view. Perfect location for exploring Fort-de-France on foot.”
7. The Bahi Villa
Not a traditional hotel, but a collection of luxurious apartment-villas that consistently earn top marks. Located in the coveted Diamant area, The Bahi Villa offers the space and privacy of a vacation rental with the service and amenities of a boutique hotel. Each unit has a private pool or jacuzzi, a full kitchen, and design that is straight out of an architectural magazine.
Why you’ll love it: The independence it offers. You get a huge, beautifully designed space all to yourself, complete with a private pool. It’s the ultimate home-away-from-home, but probably much, much nicer than your actual home. No offense.
Booking.com review: “Our stay at The Bahi Villa was the highlight of our trip. The villa was absolutely stunning, even better than the pictures. It was clean, modern, and had everything we could possibly need. The private plunge pool was our personal paradise. The hosts were incredibly welcoming and gave us great recommendations. 10/10!”
8. Diamant Les Bains
As one of the oldest hotels on the island, Diamant Les Bains has been completely revamped into a modern haven that honors its historic roots. Situated directly on the magnificent Diamond Beach, the views of the iconic Diamond Rock are simply epic. The hotel offers a mix of rooms, suites, and bungalows, all with a fresh, contemporary design.
Why you’ll love it: The location is unbeatable. Waking up to a direct, unobstructed view of Diamond Rock is something you won’t forget. The hotel’s restaurant and pool area are chic, relaxed, and perfectly positioned for maximum scenic enjoyment.
TripAdvisor review: “What a location! You are literally on the beach, and the view of Diamond Rock is insane. The hotel has been beautifully renovated. Our room was stylish and comfortable. The staff were lovely and the food at the restaurant was delicious. We spent hours just lounging by the pool, staring at that view. A perfect stay.”
9. French Coco
Welcome to the world of boutique luxury. French Coco, located on the Tartane peninsula, is a member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and for good reason. With just 17 suites, this place is intimate, exclusive, and exquisitely designed. It’s a garden oasis where every detail is curated for a serene and elegant experience.
Why you’ll love it: The personalized service and attention to detail are second to none. It feels less like a hotel and more like staying at the impossibly chic home of a dear friend. It’s a foodie paradise, with a garden-to-table culinary philosophy.
Expedia review: “French Coco is a little piece of heaven. The suites are gorgeous, private, and so comfortable. The gardens are lush and create a real sense of being in a tropical paradise. The staff treats you like family, and the food… the food is out of this world. Every meal was a culinary masterpiece. It’s a truly special place.”
10. Le Domaine des Bulles
“We were a bit hesitant, but it exceeded all our expectations. The bubble was comfortable and the view of the stars at night was breathtaking.”
Looking for something completely different? How about sleeping in a bubble? Le Domaine des Bulles offers a unique “glamping” experience where you can sleep in a transparent dome under the stars, surrounded by nature. Each bubble is air-conditioned, has its own private bathroom, and often a private jacuzzi. It’s quirky, romantic, and utterly unforgettable.
Why you’ll love it: The novelty and the connection to nature are off the charts. It’s an immersive experience that traditional hotels just can’t match. Stargazing from your bed is a core memory waiting to happen.
Booking.com review: “An absolutely unique and magical experience! We were a bit hesitant, but it exceeded all our expectations. The bubble was comfortable and the view of the stars at night was breathtaking. The private jacuzzi was a huge plus. It’s private, quiet, and so romantic. A must-do in Martinique!”
Do I need to speak French to visit Martinique?
French is the official language. While hotel staff and those in major tourist areas often speak some English, it’s highly recommended (and appreciated!) to learn a few basic French phrases like “Bonjour” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), and “S’il vous plaît” (Please).
Is Martinique expensive for tourists?
As a department of France, Martinique uses the Euro, and prices can be similar to those in Western Europe. While it can be a luxury destination, there are options for various budgets, including apartment rentals and more affordable hotels like some on our list.
When is the best time to visit Martinique?
The peak season (and best weather) is during the dry season, from December to May. The wet season runs from June to November, which is also hurricane season, though deals can be found during this time.